Spied! Pagani C9 Prototype Goes Testing In Southern Europe

Thanks to our skilled spy photographers, we bring you more images of the so-called Pagani C9 supercar caught resting from high altitude runs in southern Europe. So far, this is the best look at the car's curvaceous exterior, which, of course, is made from a lightweight carbon composite material.Unlike the smashed prototype in Germany, this prototype is completely intact, and by the looks of it, is in near production specification. Its rounded nose is interesting, to say the least -- the huge sculpted air intakes dominate the bulbous clip. From the side, the Pagani-like long wheelbase, short overhangs, and high beltline continue on the new model. Upward opening gullwing doors give the C9 a new trait for valets and onlookers to gawk at.

Carbon ceramic brakes reside inside the massive center-lock magnesium wheels, while Pirelli rubber applies the estimated 700 horsepower and 740 pound-feet of torque to the pavement. The C9's rumored 6.0-liter Mercedes AMG-built V-12 bi-turbo mill is nearly identical to the one employed by the SL65 Black Series, but receives a few tweaks to better serve Pagani's performance wishes. Expect this ride to post some very impressive 0-to-60-mph and top speed figures.Coming from the house of Pagani in Modena, Italy, the unit price won't be cheap. Insiders say the new flagship will retail for well above $1 million when it goes on sale early next year. There is still no word on if the sports car will be available stateside, so it looks like you'll have to keep it at the vacation house in Nice.